Q
What is the main reason for sending a child to preschool? Is it for socialization? If so, what types of socialization would a preschool offer that a normal home environment can't?
A
In my opinion, socialization is the single greatest developmental benefit to be gained from a good preschool experience. There are many other emotional and intellectual benefits provided by a child-centered preschool program. I would add that a loving home will provide a child as fine an opportunity for growth as any preschool. The key difference in the home and preschool socialization experiences usually is the degree to which a child has the opportunity to interact with her peers. At home, because of any number of circumstances, a child may have little opportunity to play, learn, share, or otherwise interact with other children of similar ages. In a preschool that opportunity is built in every day. Let's not forget that long before preschools existed, kids played in neighborhoods with each other and their social growth flourished.